The Last Dragon House: A Novel

by Liv Mae Morris

A middle-grade debut about a magical boarding house for dragons and the unlikely siblings destined to save it

Siblings Olly and Jenny Atwood have never met a dragon—Olly doesn’t even think they’re real. But when the strange and brilliant Dr. Lady Abernathy offers Olly a job at her mysterious house, the Atwoods learn that these incredible beasts are very much alive—and they need help.

Dragons have been forced into hiding, and as caretakers of the Dragon House, Dr. Lady and Olly are the only protectors these magnificent creatures have left. But when evil forces conspire to poison Dr. Lady, Olly and his dragon friends find themselves locked in a race against time, political conspiracies…and one very large corgi. Can Olly recover the antidote before it’s too late? And can Jenny harness her stirring powers to keep Dr. Lady alive until then? Or could this be the end of the Dragon House—and dragons—as they know it?

Genres: Fantasy, Dragons, Middle Grade, Childrens, Magic, Juvenile, Science Fiction Fantasy

Kindle Edition

Expected publication May 12, 2026

About the author

Liv Mae Morris was a 2022 Lambda Literary Fellow and 2024 recipient of the Binc Foundation’s Susan Kamil Prize for Emerging Writers; equally importantly, she is the steward of two cats and one beautiful, chaotic husky/chihuahua/German shepherd mix. Originally from Kentucky, she now lives with her wife in Boston, where she works as an indie bookseller as well as a writer.

Reviews

[Melanie Dulaney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful dragon book for middle grade readers and those in jr high who can skip over the fact that the main character is 11!

Set in the mythical country of Aldea in a time reminiscent of England during the Industrial Revolution of the 1800s when factories were the primary source of work for a population who were clearly divided along class lines and rules governing conditions were few and always benefited the owners and not the workers, young Olly Atwood finds himself looking for work in order to help support his parents and 3 younger siblings. A timely shove from an older boy allows Olly to see an almost hidden advertisement and leads him to a large, never before noticed, house outside of town that is owned by a large, intimidating woman named Dr. Lady Abernathy and inhabited by a variety of dragons, the likes most readers will have never encountered in other dragon books. Now charged with the care and feeding of these creatures and the secret of their existence, Olly embarks on a journey of not only employment, but the furthering of his formal education and the discovery of the satisfaction in considering the needs of others instead of just one’s self.

Author Liv Mae Morris’ debut novel includes awesome dragons, a quest to save the woman who provides a safe haven for them, magic and the beginnings of organized labor unions in a fast-paced book that will intrigue a wide range of ages and could possibly set up a sequel. Main character Olly is, like many 12 to 15 year olds, just discovering all he is capable of and his sister and new friend Trev are as well and their changes from beginning to end provide plenty of opportunity for connections as well as discussion material for lit circle groups or whole class novel studies. The descriptions of new dragon species will have imaginations racing and wondering if Morris has new ones to introduce as Dr Lady continues to maintain a refuge for animals forced into hiding due to lack of understanding and habitat destruction by many humans.

Excellent addition to titles about fantastic beasts and magic similar to Brandon Mull’s Fablehaven series and newer The Extraterrestrial Zoo by Samantha Van Leer.

*Target age: grade 5 and up (altho’ lack of profanity and sexual content make it also a good choice for fantasy lovers in younger grades if vocabulary and and page count are not a discouraging factor)
*Profanity: none
*Sexual content: none
*Representation: diverse economic levels among characters; variety of family configurations-single parent and traditional 2 parent homes; Dr Lady is single, not looking for a spouse but briefly remembers her love of a woman that was not viewed favorably at their time in history

Thanks for the print arc, Abrams Kids and the eARC, Abrams and Edelweiss.

[Mark Buxton · Rating 5 out of 5]

What worked:
The early part of the book follows Olly as he is expected to find a job after finishing the fifth grade. He answers an ad for a job opening even though the description says death is a possibility. Readers will be fascinated by the personalities he encounters at the sanctuary for dragons. He’s greeted at the door by a bat-dragon that can translate most dragon languages. Olly’s jobs include wearing down the back scales on Onyx, a stone dragon, and polishing the scales on a giant, deadly wyrm named Amy. Olly must be alert when helping Amy, because she might eat him or add him to her hoard if he’s careless. Amy adds humor to the story, as she often threatens to eat other characters. A smaller, fairy-dragon adores Olly’s hair and becomes an enthusiastic companion.
The author subtly hints at societal problems before revealing the main conflict. Most children must work to help pay for their families’ needs, since rampant poverty is a major issue. Dr. Lady created the Dragon House because humans were killing them for no reason. Onyx tells Olly about humans blowing up the mountain where he lived, killing his entire family living in caves. Many humans died while mining the mountain, and then the mines closed. It didn’t make sense to Onyx. Dragons once lived peacefully among humans until the rich and powerful became angered by how the dragons helped the powerless. Today, wealthy individuals still bribe the ruler to get laws and decisions favorable to their companies and fortunes. Readers slowly learn that the conflict has arrived at the Dragon House.
The synopsis hints at Jenny’s role in the plot, but she doesn’t make a significant appearance until the book’s second half. Early in the book, she finds a creature hidden near the family garden, but her family doesn’t believe her description of a dragon. Jenny’s transformation into performing magic happens slowly and doesn’t become significant until after Dr. Lady is poisoned. The author introduces another character later in the plot who changes the dynamics. Trev doesn’t seem to like Olly and constantly scowls and says everything is stupid. His negativity stands in stark contrast to the cooperation of other characters, but his character provides an opportunity to teach readers a lesson about understanding.
What didn’t work as well:
The story includes many amusing footnotes, but they’re not shared until the end of the chapters. Readers might prefer to see them at the bottom of individual pages, so that the context will be fresh in their minds. The number of dragons can be overwhelming, but the author takes the time to highlight the main characters. Including scenes that feature them individually helps readers differentiate and understand their personalities.
The final verdict:
This is a charming book about the highs and lows of human-dragon relations with underlying messages relevant to today’s society. Olly is the main character, and his compassion, bravery, and honesty make him an admirable, honorable protagonist. Dragon lovers or those looking for adventure will obviously enjoy this book, and I recommend you check it out for yourself!

[Tonja Drecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dragons, dragons, and more dragons pack imagination while weaving in journeys of growth.

Olly is only thirteen and doesn't want to start working to help support his family, but with everyone in town struggling to even survive, he has no choice but to search for a job like others his age. What seems like a fated existence to waste away at a factory, flips upside down when he discovers a hidden employment notice and begins working for a secret home for dragons. It's wondrous and dangerous, and he's not allowed to let anyone know that the home even exists. While some dragons are nice, others might devour him, but none of that holds a candle to the danger he's about to face...and it's one that even the dragons can't protect themselves from.

Taking place in historical England, the first pages reminded a tiny bit of the beginnings of Oliver Twist, Willie Wonka, and Co. as they start in a place, where normal people can barely survive thanks to the closed industries. The twist into fantasy happens quickly and offers a buffet of intriguing dragons, each so different from the rest, stretching through all sorts of myths and possibilities. Dragon fans are sure to enjoy the effort the author takes to bring each one to life. While the interactions between Olly and the dragons offer tension, humor, and heart, the tale digs into deeper issues. The head of the home, a human, opens the door to Olly by also offering an education, which opens up his world and gives open display to the issues his family and others face in the town. There's also the societal issue surrounding the reason why the home even exists; humans hunted down dragons to near extinction. This mixes with another subplot surrounding Olly's sister and the disappearance of magic from humans to weave in plenty of food for thought. Plus, there's an entire message surrounding misunderstandings and 'truth under the surface' in connection to a boy, who first appears like a town bully. Oh, and there's plenty to learn from the dragons as their vibrant personalities and encounters carry quite a few pieces of wisdom as well.

It's a wonderful world to get lost in and offers rich descriptions without slowing the pace. Olly has his hands full and never knows what to expect, and this keeps the tension relatively tight while the imagination and imagery brighten the pages. I'd even recommend this one to tweens or slightly older readers, since there is quite a bit of depth woven into the shadows and cracks. Oh, and dragon fans are most likely going to enjoy this one.

[Arimi Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh dear where to start with this one. This is everything that little me loved about the Last Dragon Chronicles, but a lot more tailored to the target audience: Kids.

I will read anything that has dragons on the book cover. This was very well wrote, the language used was perfect for kids who love to read, especially the younger audience that thsis book is aimed at: don't let the size of this book put you off. I loved how the characters each have their own silly little mannerisms. It was charming and equally comedic.

Another thing to note, is that in books on the subject of dragons, and works of fiction, that dragons love to murmur, this book was no different, and I personally loved that small detail. The whole concept of Dragon House, how they live, how the residents and employees interact with each other, the dilemma's.

I don't recommend The Last Dragon Chronicles anymore. But this? This is what I want to see for kids of the age range it is aimed at. Brilliant worldbuilding, perfectly crafted for the target audience:

Overall- if your child is a bookworm and loves dragons, they will without hesitation love this book. I grew up also on the Eragon books which is for a slightly older audience: This is a brilliant book to bridge the gap between early readers, and advanced reading (such as the eragon series.)

[Gladys · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this story so much, certainly a great beginning to a series that I know kids will love. First of all the story is set in Oakridge, a village where kids as young as 11 have to set out and look for work to help their parents earn money to bring to the house. The story is so easy to read however what made me love it so much is that the dragons personalities were so interesting from a dragon who liked poetry, to a bat dragon who acted as a very motherly secretary for Dr. Lady.
Then we have Olly, who received as one of his birthday presents a note from his mom that said “GET A JOB”. He was a kid who enjoy looking at clouds, he liked to read about heroes, he knew he did not wanted to work in the factory. So, when he found a note that advertised a different type of job, he decided it was the best option. When he arrived at the Dragon House he meets Dr. Lady and she explains about the dragons and the house. Olly decides to stay and that’s when his adventures as a dragon caretaker begins. He meets different types of dragons and has to come up with ways to entertain the dragons like giving a poetry book to Amy, who threatened to eat him all the time.
Like with any hero story, tragedy strikes when Dr. Lady falls ill, and Olly, Mindi, Amy, and other dragons set out to save Dr. Lady from dying. However, there are other forces at play, that not only help Olly to get the antidote to save Dr. Lady but also involve his sister who ends up being an important piece in the puzzle to save Dr. Lady and the Dragon. Along the way, Olly’s enemies become his friend, while new dragon enemies arise, to destroyed the dragons and anyone who wants to help protect them.

[Peter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew I would like this book just from reading the first page. Middle school fantasy book, but if you are older don’t let that stop you reading this endearing and humorous book. There’s enough for readers of every age to get their teeth into. (Just like the fairy dragons have a tendency to do.)

Yes! There are dragons! (The book’s title sort of gives that away) Lots of them - not all of them bite, some threaten to eat you. So before you start reading collect a polishing cloth or a book of poetry, those things might be the saving of you.

And Wizards, and lots of magic, and adventure, and lots of funny footnotes. Hot topic, footnotes. Don’t worry the footnotes won’t burn you, just make you laugh. Unlike some other feet I could mention. (But their owner is trying very hard to stop that happening.)

I hope this review has given you an idea that this is a fun book to spend time with. It’s a complete story, but I’m sure the author has ideas for another.

Thank you to ABRAMS kids and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Publication date: May 11, 2026

I enjoyed this story. Part quest, part learning how to grow up it’s written with a formal research format with footnotes, bit keeps its sense of whimsy. The footnotes are so funny. They do really add to the story.

The characters are diverse-ish and lovable, even those with a gruff exterior. And please, I would love a dracorgi.

Great lessons about forgiving past mistakes, seeing past a gruff exterior to the person inside, and being accepting of those who aren’t like you.

The quest was started in this book, but only halfway finished! That’s as much as I can say without a spoiler. I’m ready for book two!

For upper elementary/younger middle-grade kids who believe in the unbelievable and magic.

Content Warnings: hunger, poverty, bullying

** Thank you Abrams Kids for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.**

[Shannon Morrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

A middle-grade debut about a magical boarding house for dragons and the unlikely siblings destined to save it

Siblings Olly and Jenny Atwood have never met a dragon—Olly doesn’t even think they’re real. But when the strange and brilliant Dr. Lady Abernathy offers Olly a job at her mysterious house, the Atwoods learn that these incredible beasts are very much alive—and they need help.

Dragons have been forced into hiding, and as caretakers of the Dragon House, Dr. Lady and Olly are the only protectors these magnificent creatures have left. But when evil forces conspire to poison Dr. Lady, Olly and his dragon friends find themselves locked in a race against time, political conspiracies…and one very large corgi. Can Olly recover the antidote before it’s too late? And can Jenny harness her stirring powers to keep Dr. Lady alive until then? Or could this be the end of the Dragon House—and dragons—as they know it?

its a really cute book love it

[Mary C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Olly lives in Aldea with his parents and three younger siblings. The local factory is the main employer for the residents with poor pay and hazardous conditions. As Olly completes the fifth grade, he is expected to find a job to help support the family. He unexpectedly finds an ad leading him to a mysterious house where he is hired to take care of dragons. His employer is getting on in years and has no family that can takeover. Olly learns that humans and dragons once lived in harmony before humans felt the dragons were a danger and sought to kill the species off. When his employer is poisoned, Olly sets off with companions to obtain the antidote. His younger sibling Jenny enters the story when she discovers a dragon in the family garden which leads her to the Dragon House where along with Olly and his companions, they will save the house and its residents.
#TheLastDragonHouse #AbramsKids #AmuletBooks #NetGalley

[Charity (Charity's Library) · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgally and the publisher for an early review copy.

Something I loved was the descriptions of the different dragons! They were all so unique and fun to meet.
This started out as a super cute middle grade book about dragons and if it had continued that way and ended that way I easily would have given this 4 stars. But this divulged into political territory - and in a “middle grade”? Not only was it political themes and opinions but literal political terms that made no sense in a middle grade story. Some of these terms the intended audience wouldn’t have even learned yet in their education but the political agenda became more important than the integrity of the story unfortunately.
I wish i could rate this higher but I truly cant in good conscious recommend this to young readers knowing the author is clearly trying to push a certain political agenda whether it fit the story or not (it didnt.)

[Caity · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley and Abrams Kids Amulet Books for the ARC book.

I really enjoyed how this book tied in with the industrial revolution, this isn't a time period i would normally associate with fantasy books but it works so well. The way the modernization ties into forgetting about magic and dragons makes perfect sense and as the plot progresses the political intrigue ties into this so well. The dragons are well done, the book does feature a rather large cast of dragons but focuses more on just a few for now. This works well for the mission at hand but also leaves you excited to get to know the other dragons better in the next books. The adventure was a perfect introduction to these characters and while you are left wanting more also a clear natural point to stop for now and feel satisfied. All around an excellent cozy adventure.

[Lindsey Bohannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you so much to NetGalley for the ARC!

2.5/5

This book had so much potential, but just couldn't quite make it work. The best part by far was the dragons. Easily the best thing about this book and took me back to my childhood reading about them. With so many different species with different quirks and personalities, it makes you fall in love and want to live in that world.

So why only 2.5 stars. Well, to me, it seemed that the author couldn't quite decide if they were writing a fun adventure novel about a house whose purpose was to look after dragons or write about the problems about the current state of the world. This caused the book to feel incredibly disjointed because there would be interruptions in the telling of the story to directly state these issues. Which is such a shame because the author could have written them into the book without directly stating them.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gr 4 & Up – Turning eleven in Aldea means leaving school to work in the factories, but Olly is not ready to give up his dreams. While searching for employment, he answers a mysterious advertisement and instead finds himself at a boarding house for dragons. Inside the TARDIS-like home lives a lively assortment of creatures, including fairy-, bat-, and rock-type dragons, along with a poetry-loving death wyrm who would rather eat Olly than befriend him. When Olly and his companions set out to retrieve a rare ingredient, the story unfolds into a quest filled with rough terrain, sharp humor, and steadily developing lore.
Morris builds a whimsical fantasy world rich with playful names and layered mythos while grounding the adventure in Olly’s struggle to define his own path. As the journey progresses, he must also navigate Aldea’s political machinations and the secrets kept by those closest to him. The ending leaves room for future installments featuring this eccentric cast of dragons and wizards.
VERDICT: A must purchase for middle grade collections. An imaginative fantasy adventure with humor and heart, best suited for readers who enjoy immersive world-building and quest-driven stories.

[Gretchen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher for this free eARC! All opinions are my own.

Eleven year old Olly Atwood must find a job to help support his family. He happens upon an advertisement behind the job board that sounds dangerous, but Olly desperately doesn't want to work at the silverware factory. He accepts a job helping care for dragons (who knew those existed!). Just as he's beginning to get comfortable, his employer Dr. Lady is poisoned. Olly and some of the dragons go in search of the antidote. Meanwhile, Olly's sister Jenny's magical powers are awakened, and she is led to the dragon's house to help heal Dr. Lady.

Despite the poisoning and light politics, this is a really lighthearted and fun book.

[Stephanie Ton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received early access to this book as an audiobook, which I listened to over several days in the car.

This book is fast, like many books for readers this age and doesn't focus on the setting as much as the plot, dialogue and lessons learned. Overall I thought the book was a good, funny, light-hearted read, but when my 8 year old son sampled some of it, he said he thought it was great (I'll have to buy him the physical book when it comes out). Some of the topics that young readers will encounter but not necessarily recognize as a lesson include those relating to being poor, class stratification, being true to yourself and making the decision to help someone at a cost to you personally (being selfless). The dragons were all quite cute, and I found the book to be very appropriate for young readers. If this was a movie I would rate it PG, the reading level is probably grade 4-6 if I had to guess.

[Namo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olly Atwood has somehow got involved with the mysterious house of Dr. Lady. And that’s his first time encounter dragons. Then, there’s an evil that try to interfere Dr. Lady. So Olly has to work with his sibling, Jenny, to protect the dragons and the house, as well as finding the antidote for Dr. Lady.

Wow, this book is pretty good, especially for the debut. When I read it, I felt like I was thrown back in time to when I was young. I really enjoyed this type of story growing up. Those include Narnia, Eragon, and Deltora Quests, etc. It feels so good to experience that again. Very whimsy and also so catching that I finished so fast.

Thank you the author, Rbmedia, and #NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Larissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I truly love the idea of this plot a house full of dragons that a kid stumbles upon and learns how to befriend them. However, the execution of the story fell kind of short. It felt like the book was struggling to figure out if it wanted to be political, a great quest book, or something in between. Overall, I didn’t find myself enchanted like I had hoped to be. This book was okay but nothing that would come to mind when readers ask me for a recommendation. I also don't know that middle grade readers will truly fall in love with this book. I just don't feel like it has the hook it needs to be truly appreciated by that age of a reader.
Thank you to Abram’s Kids and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this title.

[Jan Hoffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not everyone or everything fits or is even supposed to fit in the world, real or imaginary. This is a very good thing, and at the heart of “The Last Dragon House” not to mention everyone who will read this book. The dragon and good hearted character drenched book is laced with evergreen themes perfect for those who love early middle grade fantasy with a gentle touch. We want to have a place with dragons, kindness, and family when so many seek to tear us to shreds. “The Last Dragon House” will hopefully be the beginning of a new series that needs to be on library and bookstore shelves for those who need to find dragons and kindred spirits.

[Kristen · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Last Dragon House is a well written and engaging tale of two siblings and their simultaneous encounters with dragons. On the surface, it is a sweet tale of good versus evil. In this world, there are a myriad of dragon types, each with its own biome and needs. Dr. Lady Abernathy has created a sanctuary for them and hires 11 year old Olly as her new successor/apprentice. Jenny, Olly's 9 year old sister finds a dragon hiding in her family's garden and befriends him. There are a lot of political themes under the surface of the story. It was off-putting in a middle grade story.

I received a free advance reader copy. All opinions are my own.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Imagine a young boy thrust into the workforce in a setting fit for Charles Dickens, and you’ll be ready to enter the world of this new middle grade fantasy. Olly assumes the role of caretaker at The Last Dragon House, a tucked away home for dragons of all species. I loved hearing about the huge variety of creative creatures. When his employer falls ill, Olly must help find a cure and fight back evil forces as he teams up with others on his cozy quest. This is a solid contribution to the genre that will be a crowd pleaser, but it lacked the sparkle of a 5-star read in my opinion. I listened to an advanced copy of the audiobook on NetGalley.

[Jasmine Shouse · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had a lot of fun reading this with my 9-year-old who said this was his favorite of our together reads so far. I love dragons, and I love the way various dragons are integrated into this story. Olly, while kind of a bland-ish character to start, ends up being quite enjoyable. We adored his sister Jenny, though. While the stakes seem pretty high, the actual adventure feels pretty cozy. Looking forward to the next book in the series.

Thank you to NetGalley and publisher for the opportunity to read and review.

[Mikaela Lennberg (lennberglibrary) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book with my dragon loving 9 year old daughter. She loved all of the dragon characters and the different types that played different roles in the story. She liked the mystery and adventure aspect. Olly kind of reminded us of Harry Potter, going on a quest to save someone. There were a few parts that my daughter had a hard time understanding on her own but since I was reading it with her I was able to explain it. I would say this book would appeal to 9-12 year olds who enjoys magical quests.

[Michelle.likestoread · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to this audiobook with my kids, and they loved the story. Every time we got in the car, they asked to listen to “the dragon story,” because they had to know what would happen next- and so did I!

It was a whimsical story and it was so easy to get transported to that world. It reminded me of a mix between Upside Down Magic and How to Train Your Dragon.

The narrator did a fantastic job with the various voices, making it super easy to follow along.

Thank you so much to NetGalley , RB Media, and Liv Mae Morris for gifting me an ALC of the audiobook.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a super cute and fun read. I loved all the characters, especially the dragons.

My only complaints were it took me awhile to get into it and the footnotes seemed completely unnecessary. Im not a fan of footnotes in fiction.

This book is great for young fantasy readers and adults alike. Dragons have always been a favorite of mine, so I’m always thrilled when a new series starts that features them. You can tell this is just the first book in what will be a series, and I can’t wait to read more.

[Rainey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read in advance via NetGalley.

When I requested a middle grade fantasy featuring a home for dragons, I was expecting something light and cozy.

Instead, this is an anti-capitalist, pro-union adventure in a Dickensian setting … I loved the unexpected depth, and the humorous footnotes interspersed throughout the story.

[Shaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Super cute fantasy. Labeled as a middle grades book, I loved it as an adult. About learning that being different doesn’t make you a monster. I love the description of all the different types of dragons and really need someone to draw them.😍
Thank you to Olivia Mae Morrison and NetGalley for the ALC!

[Em Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

if I had one word to describe this book: kind. it just oozes kindness from every pore, and I adored it. clever, funny, adventurous, and never afraid to tackle big issues (*Amy voice* STRIKE!!!) this is 110% an author to watch.

[Sherry Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved everything about this book!!! The fantasy, the danger, excitement, surprises and the absolutely incredible characters! It was fantastic from beginning to end! It’s a YA book , but I’m 68 years old and again loved it!!!

[Ashli · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Last Dragon House was such a fun and whimsical middle grade fantasy that readers both young and young at heart will easily fall in love with. There’s magic, dragons, adventure, and heart woven throughout every page, creating a story that feels both cozy and exciting all at once.

[Manu · Rating 4 out of 5]

mi sono immaginata di leggerlo come favola della buonanotte ai miei figli e non voglio nemmeno avere bambini
(grazie a netgalley per l'e-arc!)